Turbinate (Nasal Tissue) Surgery in Izmir

What is Turbinate (Nasal Tissue) Surgery?

The turbinates, also known as nasal tissues, are bony and soft structures located inside the nose that help regulate airflow. Turbinates condition the air by warming, humidifying, and filtering it. However, enlargement or swelling of the turbinates for various reasons can lead to breathing difficulties. Turbinate surgery is a surgical procedure performed to address these issues.

What is Turbinate Enlargement?

Turbinate enlargement (nasal tissue hypertrophy) occurs when the turbinates swell or expand due to various reasons, such as:

Allergies

• Chronic sinusitis
• Environmental irritants (smoke, dust, etc.)
• Hormonal changes
• Structural nasal problems

What is Turbinate Surgery?

Turbinate surgery aims to relieve nasal congestion and help the patient breathe more easily. The procedure opens the airway, enlarges the nasal passages, and improves airflow.

How is Turbinate (Nasal Tissue) Surgery Performed?

Before the surgery, a detailed consultation is conducted with your doctor. During this consultation, the doctor identifies the causes of your breathing difficulties and evaluates the severity of the turbinate enlargement. The possible outcomes and risks of the surgery are also explained.

Some preparations may be required before the surgery. Your doctor will provide instructions regarding medications you should take or stop before the procedure.

Turbinate surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia or sedation. In some cases, general anesthesia may be preferred.

Several techniques can be used for turbinate surgery:

• Submucosal Resection of Turbinates: Part of the turbinate tissue is removed to reduce its size.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: High-frequency energy is used to shrink the turbinate tissue.
• Laser Surgery: A laser is used to reduce and reshape the turbinate tissue.
• Turbinate Reduction with Microdebrider: Excess tissue is removed using a special device.

Recovery After Turbinate Surgery

After turbinate surgery, nasal packing may be placed inside the nose. Mild discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding may occur during the first few days. Full recovery may take several weeks. Your doctor will provide detailed guidance on what to watch for during the recovery process.

What Are the Risks After Turbinate Surgery?

Like any surgical procedure, turbinate surgery carries certain risks, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Anesthesia-related complications
• Nasal dryness
• Rarely, post-operative nasal obstruction

Turbinate (Nasal Tissue) Treatment in İzmir

Turbinate treatment depends on the severity of the enlargement and the underlying causes. Treatment usually begins with medication and, if necessary, surgical methods are considered.

1. Medication Therapy

Turbinate enlargement can often be managed with medical treatment:

• Allergy Treatment: Antihistamines and nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce allergic reactions.
• Decongestants: Help relieve nasal congestion (short-term use recommended).
• Saline Sprays: Moisturize nasal passages and reduce blockage.

2. Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be required when medical treatment is insufficient. The most common surgical methods include:

• Radiofrequency (RF) Ablation: Enlarged turbinate tissue is reduced using radiofrequency energy. This minimally invasive method is usually performed under local anesthesia.
• Turbinate Reduction with Microdebrider: Excess tissue is removed using a special device. This technique is effective while preserving nasal function.
• Laser Turbinate Surgery: The volume of the turbinates is reduced using a laser. It is advantageous because it is typically bloodless.
• Turbinate Resection: In severe cases, part of the turbinate may be surgically removed. This method must be applied carefully, as it may cause side effects such as nasal dryness.

Post-Operative Care After Turbinate Surgery in İzmir

During the recovery period after turbinate surgery, attention should be given to the following:

• Use the medications prescribed by your doctor regularly.
• Keep the inside of the nose moist and maintain care with saline sprays.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy exertion.
• Stay away from irritants such as cigarette smoke.

Benefits of Turbinate Treatment

After successful treatment, patients may experience:

• Easier breathing
• Improved sleep quality and reduced snoring
• Fewer sinusitis attacks
• Enhanced overall quality of life

Turbinate enlargement is a condition that can negatively affect quality of life but can now be easily treated with modern medical techniques. Treatment options are tailored to individual needs. If you experience nasal congestion or difficulty breathing, it is important to consult an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist for evaluation.